De grote overwinning voor het Japanse leger bij Pyongyang 1894

Ogata Gekko made this print of the Japanese army’s great victory at Pyongyang using woodblock printing, a technique known as ukiyo-e, which translates as ‘pictures of the floating world.’ The process begins with a drawing, which is then transferred to a woodblock, usually cherry. Skilled artisans carve the image, and then apply ink or pigment before printing onto paper. The key block, usually in black ink, defines the composition, while additional blocks add color. The final image is a result of meticulous labor, with each print requiring patience and precision. Here, the linear qualities of the woodblock emphasize the violence and chaos of battle. The limited color palette adds to the drama of the scene. Woodblock prints were often produced in multiples, reflecting the rise of consumer culture in Japan during the late 19th century. Understanding the labor-intensive process of woodblock printing, and its place in a culture undergoing rapid social change, helps us to appreciate the historical significance of this image.